Tennis Coaching

What to do in Warmups

The warmup period before a match affords players the perfect time to do much more than loosen up and hit balls. Scouting an opponent is extremely important. Warmups can give you a decided edge over your opponent if used wisely.

Yourself

1. Concentrate on foot movement.
2. Hit ball in center of racket.
3. Begin to concentrate, block out all outside distractions (crowd, music, etc.).
4. Hit a few forehands, backhands, volleys, overheads.
5. Don’t show your best shot, but don’t avoid your weak shot. (i.e. if your forehand is your best shot, instead hit your backhand.)
6. Concentrate, not only on strokes, but also with placement and pace.
7. Be aware of playing conditions: sun, wind direction, background, etc.

Opponent

1. Pick up on strengths and weaknesses.
2. Be sure you test all aspects of the other person’s game (i.e. forehand, backhand, low, high, etc.)
3. Gauge their mobility.
4. Notice if they have 1 or 2-handed backhand. (If 2-handed backhand, play low and high to backhand side.)
5. Notice their height. (If they are tall, try to jam them inside.)
6. Notice grips. (If extreme western, they should have trouble with low and high forehands.)
7. Watch and see if they have favorite shots, placement, and pace.